Pedro Fitz-James Stuart facts for kids
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Pedro Fitz-James Stuart and Colón de Portugal (born November 6, 1720, in Madrid – died 1789) was a very important Spanish naval officer. He became a Captain General of the Navy, which was the highest rank in the Spanish Navy. He was also known as the IV Marqués de San Leonardo.
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Pedro Fitz-James Stuart was the second son of James Fitz-James Stuart, 2nd Duke of Berwick. His mother was Catalina Colón de Portugal. This means he was a descendant of two famous people: James II of England and the explorer Christopher Columbus.
When he was 16 years old, Pedro decided to join the Spanish Navy. He quickly started serving in important missions.
Early Battles and Promotions
Pedro Fitz-James Stuart fought in the Mediterranean Sea against ships from Berber states. He also took part in the Battle of Cartagena de Indias against the English navy. This battle was a big event in naval history.
On January 24, 1745, he was promoted to captain. He was given command of a frigate, a type of warship, named Aurora. With this ship, he patrolled the Mediterranean Sea.
Capturing the Danzik
In 1751, Pedro Fitz-James Stuart was in charge of two large warships. He led them to capture an Algerian pirate ship called the Danzik. This happened during an event known as the Action of 28 November 1751.
His ships returned to port with 320 prisoners. They also rescued 50 Christian slaves who had been captured by the pirates. The Spanish Navy was very impressed by his success. Pedro Fitz-James Stuart received much praise and was promoted to "Jefe de escuadra," which means Squadron Leader.
Leading a Squadron and Royal Service
Later, he led a group of three warships and two frigates. He operated first in the North Sea and then in the Mediterranean. In 1757, he was promoted again to Lieutenant General.
After King Ferdinand VI of Spain passed away, Pedro Fitz-James Stuart's squadron had a special job. They were part of the fleet that brought the new King Charles III of Spain and the royal family from Naples to Barcelona.
Later Life and Highest Honor
After completing this important mission, Pedro Fitz-James Stuart finished his active career in the Navy. He was then appointed "Caballerizo Mayor del Rey," a high position at the Royal Court.
In 1771, he received the Grand Cross in the Order of Charles III. This was a very important award. In 1789, he reached the highest possible rank in the Navy. He was named Captain General of the Navy. Sadly, he died shortly after receiving this great honor.
Family Life
In 1749, Pedro Fitz-James Stuart married María Benita de Rozas y Drummond. She was the daughter of José de Rozas, who was a Captain General of Guatemala. María Benita was also the widow of a former Spanish Prime Minister. Pedro and María Benita did not have any children.
Sources
- Real Academia de la Historia
- Todoavante
See also
In Spanish: Pedro Fitz-James Stuart para niños
